Missing KWS guide found dead in Mt Kenya

By Newsflash Writer

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed the death of a guide who went missing while trekking on Mt Kenya, bringing to an end a nearly three-week search operation that involved multiple agencies and members of the mountain community.

Mr Samuel Macharia Wanjohi, a porter, was reported missing on December 23, 2025, while navigating the Sirimon–Shipton route within Mt Kenya National Park. His body was discovered on January 9, 2026, at Hinde Valley, at an altitude of approximately 4,300 metres above sea level, after an intensive search effort.

Search efforts

Following the initial report of his disappearance, KWS immediately activated its Mountain Search and Rescue Unit in line with its mandate to ensure visitor safety within protected mountain ecosystems. A formal report was also recorded at Chogoria Police Station.

The search operation spanned several days and covered vast and rugged terrain, including Shipton Camp, Austrian Hut, Mackinder’s Valley, Sendeyo, Hinde Valley, Mintos and the Timau Route.

KWS deployed experienced rangers and rescue specialists, supported by aerial surveillance and extensive ground patrols, despite harsh weather conditions, poor visibility and difficult terrain.

Throughout the operation, KWS worked closely with the National Police Service and received critical support from mountain guides, porters, family members and the local Mt Kenya mountain community, whose cooperation and resilience were described as vital to the mission.

Safety commitment

In a statement issued on Saturday, KWS expressed deep regret over the loss and conveyed condolences to Mr Wanjohi’s family, friends, colleagues and the wider mountain community.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening mountain safety, emergency preparedness and coordinated response mechanisms within Kenya’s protected high-altitude environments.

KWS noted that the incident underscores the risks associated with mountain trekking and the importance of adherence to safety protocols.

The recovery of Mr Wanjohi’s body brings a sombre close to a search marked by determination, solidarity and the challenging realities of rescue operations in extreme mountain conditions.